Without affordable, reliable broadband connectivity, people in rural areas are held back by limited access to educational, employment, and business opportunities.

But proven technology exists that can affordably bring wireless broadband to communities in rural America. This technology utilizes a part of spectrum known as TV white spaces to deliver broadband access over many miles, compared to Wi-Fi’s reach of approximately 100-325 yards. TV white spaces are spectrum that can be used for TV and radio broadcasts, as well as to deliver fast, affordable, reliable internet access. This emerging technology is already successfully extending broadband in countries around the world.

In the U.S., technology providers are ready to invest in expanding access to this broadband solution, but first policy action is needed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The FCC must establish supportive rules that provide sufficient TV white spaces spectrum to transmit wireless broadband signals over long distances. This policy will open the doors to bringing high-speed internet to millions of Americans who currently lack access.